Province Strengthens Oversight of Non-Resident Residential Property Ownership

The Government of Prince Edward Island passed amendments to the Prince Edward Island Lands Protection Act aimed at establishing oversight for non-resident ownership of municipal property which will help curb speculative housing practices and protect housing availability for Islanders. 

The amendments address a gap in the legislation by introducing oversight measures for non-residents purchasing multiple properties located in areas with an official plan that were previously exempt from this Act.

These changes will help ensure that all property in Prince Edward Island falls under the protection of the Prince Edward Island Lands Protection Act, while providing the ability to monitor ownership of municipal properties by non-residents. 

“We have heard concerns from Islanders regarding residential properties being purchased and left vacant at a time when housing availability remains a challenge across the province. We are committed to ensuring appropriate oversight of non-resident ownership and addressing concerns related to vacant residential properties and housing availability in our communities.”
— Darlene Compton, Minister of Land and Environment

The amendments are expected to come into force within 60-90 days following Royal Assent, which was granted on May 29, 2026.

Media contact:
Morgan Martin
Department of Land and Environment
902-218-3430
mxmartin@gov.pe.ca